Pubic lice treatment

Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.

Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Pubic lice treatment

How it works

Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.

Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.

Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.

Learn about Pubic lice

Pubic lice, often colloquially known as crabs, are tiny insects that infest the hair in the pubic region. These parasites are primarily transmitted through sexual contact, making them a common concern among sexually active individuals. The prevalence of pubic lice has seen fluctuations over the years, with occurrences often linked to variations in personal grooming trends, as the removal of pubic hair can reduce their habitats. Despite being a treatable condition, pubic lice can cause discomfort and stigma, making awareness and understanding of natural treatments paramount.

Causes

Pubic lice infestation is caused by the parasite Pthirus pubis. The primary mode of transmission is through direct contact with an infested person, typically during sexual activity. However, it is also possible, albeit rare, to contract pubic lice through sharing infested clothing, towels, or bedding. Unlike common misconceptions, personal hygiene levels do not prevent or contribute to the likelihood of an infestation.

Signs and symptoms

- Itching in the affected area, which may worsen at night - Inflammation and irritation in the genital area - Bluish spots or small blisters in the infested area due to lice bites - Visible nits (lice eggs) or crawling lice in pubic hair - Mild fever and lack of energy (in cases of severe infestation)

Diagnosing Pubic lice

Diagnosing pubic lice typically involves a visual examination. Healthcare providers can often identify an infestation by observing nits attached to pubic hair or noticing the presence of adult lice. In some cases, a magnifying glass may be used to help see the lice more clearly. It is important to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis, especially since pubic lice symptoms can mimic those of other conditions.

Prevention and natural treatment

Prevention of pubic lice primarily revolves around avoiding sharing bedding, towels, or clothing with someone who has an infestation and limiting sexual contact with infested partners until they have been treated successfully. Regarding natural treatments, while over-the-counter and prescription medications are highly effective against pubic lice, there are also non-chemical methods that can complement traditional treatments or serve as alternatives when the use of chemicals is not desired. - Thorough laundering: Washing infested clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (at least 130°F or 54°C) and then drying them on high heat can kill lice and nits. - Careful combing: Using a fine-toothed comb on damp hair may help remove lice and nits from pubic hair. This method requires patience and should be repeated daily for about two weeks. - Essential oils: Some essential oils, such as tea tree oil or neem oil, have been touted for their potential insecticidal properties against lice. However, these should be used with caution, as they can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people. Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil and conduct a patch test before full application. - Body hair removal: Although not a treatment per se, removing pubic hair may eliminate the habitat for lice. However, this should be considered carefully, as shaving can cause skin irritation and may not be suitable for everyone. Always consult with a healthcare professional before trying any new treatment, especially when dealing with an infestation of pubic lice. While natural methods can be effective, they may need to be used in conjunction with or as a follow-up to more traditional treatments to ensure full eradication of the parasites.

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